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Spectrum Classic Clips: Soviets Leave the Ice

by
Kevin Kurz
/ Philadelphia Flyers

Throughout the summer months, philadelphiaflyers.com will dig through the archives here at the Wachovia Center and take a look back at some classic moments in the history of the Wachovia Spectrum as the building prepares to close its doors forever.

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It's a game that needs no introduction if you're a long-time Flyers fan.

On January 11, 1976, the Philadelphia Flyers hosted the Soviet Red Army team at the Spectrum. The Soviets famously left the ice in the first period after a hard hit on Valeri Kharlamov by defenseman Ed Van Impe - a hit that is pretty modest by today's standards. Eventually they returned to the ice, only to see Reggie Leach score 17 seconds into the delay of game penalty that was called to give the Flyers the 1-0 lead. Philadelphia would go on to a 4-1 victory in the only defeat the Red Army team would suffer on it's 1976 tour.

The following clip is from that game, and features the moments before, during and right after the controversy. It is the original game footage from CBC (Canada) featuring broadcasters Dick Irvin and Bob Cole.